Intimate Venue. Ultimate Experience.
CONCERTS/SHOWS
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SONGWRITING WITH JIM OLIVER | 6-WEEK WORKSHOP
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YOUTH THEATER PRODUCTION
Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr.
Performance dates: July 16 and 17 at 7pm,
July 18 at 2:30pm
Directed by Jennifer Conley Darling
Music Directed by Elinor Marsh
Choreography by Beau Hutchings
TICKETSTickets will go on sale June 14
$15 in advance | $17 at the doorThis play will be performed at the Calhoun County Fairgrounds.Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical is the captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. With a book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda has won 47 international awards and continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages around the world.
Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence, and psychokinetic powers. She’s unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey. Over the course of her first term at school, Matilda and Miss Honey have a profound effect on each other’s lives, as Miss Honey begins not only to recognize but also appreciate Matilda’s extraordinary personality. Matilda’s school life isn’t completely smooth sailing, however – the school’s mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who don’t abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be the school pupils’ saving grace!
This production is being held at the Calhoun County Fair Grounds located at 720 Fair Street in Marshall, Michigan. Enter through the Fair Street entrance.
Gates open 30 minutes before each performance.
There are three seating options, which you can choose on a first-come, first-served basis:
1. Bring your own lawn chairs (closest to the stage on the track)
2. Watch in your car (behind chair seating on the track – radio frequency provided)
3. Grandstand seating (general seating)
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6 SHOW PACKAGE
FLEX TICKET
6 shows starting at $132
The Franke Center is back with our most diverse, exciting season ever! The season FlexTicket season pass allows you to pick any six from a wide range of world-class concerts and performances. Choose what inspires you!
SEPTEMBER 11, 2021 | 8PM
MICHIGAN RATTLERS
COUNTRY ROCK
Part of the Michigan Stars series, Rolling Stone named Michigan Rattlers one of their “Ten New Country Artists You Need To Know.”
SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | 8PM
PETE SEEGER TRIBUTE | 3LB CUT & FRIENDS
FOLK
Celebrate the music of folk icon Pete Seeger, writer of classic songs such as If I Had A Hammer, Where Have All The Flowers Gone and Turn, Turn, Turn. The show will feature Marshall’s own band “3LB Cut”, which includes Kjell Croce, Adrian Bagale, Derek Smith, and Alvin Lautzenheiser, with other special guests.
NOVEMBER 20,2021 | 8PM
JOE LOUIS WALKER
BLUES
Joe Louis Walker, a Blues Hall of Fame inductee and four-time Blues Music Award winner, celebrates a career that exceeds half a century. Within the Blues world, he is described as a “living legend” and has performed at many of the world’s most renowned music festivals.
JANUARY 15, 2022 | 8PMIRISH PUB NIGHT
FEATURING BLACKTHORN
Featuring traditional songs combined with some of Ireland’s best contemporary songs, Blackthorn creates a musical experience that captures the history and legend of Ireland and its people.
JANUARY 22, 2022 | 8PMWOLF TREE FILM FEST
SHORT FILM VIEWING
Featuring traditional songs combined with some of Ireland’s best contemporary songs, Blackthorn creates a musical experience that captures the history and legend of Ireland and its people.
FEBRUARY 5, 2022 | 8PMICE, WINE, BEER & BLUES
MATT SCHOFIELD
Experience a night of exceptional blues from Matt Schofield, a member of the British Blues Hall of Fame
FEBRUARY 26, 2022 | 8PMJACKSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
CLASSICAL
The Jackson Symphony Orchestra has a rich and vibrant history serving the Jackson area since 1949. The orchestra has performed with many legendary figures in the world of music including Dizzy Gillespie, Grant Johannesen, Ralph Votapek and Ian Hobson. www.jacksonsymphony.org
APRIL 23, 2022 | 8PM
DEAR OLIVIA
FOLK-POP
24-year-old singer-songwriter Olivia Dear (formerly Olivia Millerschin) hails from Detroit. Her unique folk-pop style features thoughtful songwriting powered by her perfect, moving vocals and multi-instrumental prowess.
MARCH 26, 2022 | 8PM
Legendary Woman: A One-Woman Show by Maya Azucena
MULTI-GENRE-POP
In LEGENDARY WOMAN, internationally-known singer Maya Azucena and her band take audiences on an inspiring journey through the history of women vocalists, from old-time jazz to disco to modern pop.
MAY 6, 2022 | 8PMGILMORE KEYBOARD FESTIVAL | YOUNG ARTIST TBA
CLASSICAL
The mission of The Gilmore is to promote and develop world-class keyboard musical experiences that inspire present and future artists and audiences. The Gilmore Young Artist Award is presented every two years to single out the most promising of the new generation of U.S.-based pianists, age 22 and younger.
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3 Show Package
MICHIGAN STARS SERIES
3 SHOWS STARTING AT $80
You shop local. You eat local. You drink Michigan craft beers. But do you listen to Michigan music? Our new Michigan Stars Series brings you the Michigan artists you need to know—from new innovators to established legends.
SEPTEMBER 11, 2021 | 8PMMICHIGAN RATTLERS
COUNTRY ROCK
Part of the Michigan Stars series, Rolling Stone named Michigan Rattlers one of their “Ten New Country Artists You Need To Know.”
OCTOBER 2, 2021 | 8PMTHE VERVE PIPE
ALTERNATIVE POP
Icons of the alternative rock scene, Michigan’s own The Verve Pipe has journeyed from their roots in East Lansing to the top of the charts with hits including The Freshmen, Photograph, and Colorful. The Verve Pipe is known for powerful live performances, and this is one you won’t want to miss.
APRIL 23, 2022 | 8PMOLIVIA DEAR
FOLK / POP
24-year-old singer-songwriter Olivia Dear (formerly Olivia Millerschin) hails from Detroit. Her unique folk-pop style features thoughtful songwriting powered by her perfect, moving vocals and multi-instrumental prowess.
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3 SHOW PACKAGE
BLUES SERIES
3 SHOWS STARTING AT $92
The Franke Center is known as one of the finest blues venues in the Midwest. Each year, we select standout artists from across the world and bring them right here to Michigan. Get 3 phenomenal blues shows with one convenient ticket.
OCTOBER 23, 2021 | 8PM
SAVOY BROWN
BLUES
“Legendary …A blues/rock institution … true innovators” – words used to describe Savoy Brown and leader Kim Simmonds, the longest-running blues band in history. Their hit singles “I’m Tired”, “Tell Mama”, and “Run To Me” are on Billboard’s Hot 100 all-time hit list, and they have released an incredible 38 albums in over 50 years of performing.
NOVEMBER 20, 2021 | 8PM
JOE LOUIS WALKER
BLUES
Joe Louis Walker, a Blues Hall of Fame inductee and four-time Blues Music Award winner, celebrates a career that exceeds half a century. Within the Blues world, he is described as a “living legend” and has performed at many of the world’s most renowned music festivals. Don’t miss his live show on the Franke Center’s intimate stage!
FEBRUARY 5, 2022 | 8PM
ICE WINE, BEER, BLUES
MATT SCHOFIELD
A member of the British Blues Hall of Fame, Matt Schofield is considered one of the top British blues guitarists of all time, alongside icons like Eric Clapton and Peter Green.
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Michigan Rattlers
Michigan Rattlers
COUNTRY ROCK
SEPTEMBER 11, 2021 | 8PM
ADV. $24 | DOOR $26
“RIVETING ROCK & ROLL WITH A COUNTRY EDGE.”
– Rolling StoneLifelong friends and deep-north natives, Michigan Rattlers play heavy-hearted folk-rock with an aching dose of Midwestern nice. Graham Young (lead vocals/guitar), Adam Reed (vocals/upright bass), Christian Wilder (vocals/piano) and Tony Audia (drums) began writing music and performing together in their Northern Michigan high school. They regularly played every bar, cafe, and stage in town, developing a musical chemistry informed by the likes of AC/DC, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Bob Seger, and more. After a few years apart, Reed and Young settled down in Los Angeles, recorded a short demo, and began playing locally. The demo found its way in the hands of super-producer Johnny K, and they cut the bulk of their first EP at NRG Studios in just one day. This self-titled Michigan Rattlers EP attracted glowing reviews from No Depression, Bluegrass Situation, Relix, Glide, Grammy.com, and more. Rolling Stone named the band one of their “Ten New Country Artists You Need To Know.” In 2018, following a massive summer tour that included stops at Bonnaroo, Firefly and Electric Forest; the band released their highly anticipated debut full length album, Evergreen, and added pianist Christian Wilder and drummer Tony Audia to their lineup. The Michigan Rattlers are currently in the studio recording their second full-length album in between tour dates.
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PETE SEEGER TRIBUTE FEATURING 3LB CUT AND FRIENDS
PETE SEEGER TRIBUTE FEATURING 3LB CUT
AMERICAN FOLK
SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | 8PM
DOORS AND BAR OPENS AT 7:30
GENERAL ADMISSION
ADV. $20 | DOOR $22
Celebrate the music of folk icon Pete Seegar, writer of classic songs such as If I Had A Hammer, Where Have All The Flowers Gone and Turn, Turn, Turn. The show will feature Marshall’s own band “3LB Cut”, which includes Kjell Croce, Adrian Bagale, Derek Smith, and Alvin Lautzenheiser, with special guests.
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The Verve Pipe
THE VERVE PIPE
ALTERNATIVE ROCK
OCTOBER 2, 2021 | 8PM
PRESHOW IN THE DOWNSTAGE BAR 7 PM
ADV. $40 | DOOR $42
Icons of the alternative rock scene, Michigan’s own The Verve Pipe has journeyed from their roots in East Lansing to the top of the charts with hits including The Freshmen, Photograph, and Colorful. The Verve Pipe is known for powerful live performances, and this is one you won’t want to miss. Part of the Michigan Stars Series.
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SAVOY BROWN
SAVOY BROWN
BLUES SERIES
OCTOBER 23, 2021 | 8PM
PRESHOW IN THE DOWNSTAGE BAR 7PM
ADV. $34 | DOOR $36
“Legendary …A blues/rock institution … true innovators” – words used to describe Savoy Brown and leader Kim Simmonds, the longest-running blues band in history. Their hit singles “I’m Tired”, “Tell Mama”, and “Run To Me” are on Billboard’s Hot 100 all-time hit list, and they have released an incredible 38 albums in over 50 years of performing.
Opening for Savoy Brown is Grand Rapids bluesman Jimmie Stagger.
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JOE LOUIS WALKER
JOE LOUIS WALKER
BLUES SERIES
NOVEMBER 20, 2021 | 8PM
PRESHOW IN THE DOWNSTAGE BAR 7:00PM
ADV. $30 | Door $32
Joe Louis Walker, a Blues Hall of Fame inductee and four-time Blues Music Award winner, celebrates a career that exceeds half a century. Within the Blues world, he is described as a “living legend” and has performed at many of the world’s most renowned music festivals. Don’t miss his live show on the Franke Center’s intimate stage!
Opening for Joe Louis Walker is local favorite Kjell Croce. Kjell has shared stages with bluesmen Lonnie Brooks and Jimmy Johnson, singer/songwriters Ellis Paul, Kate Cambell and Dave Ramont, and performed at the Michigan Talent Showcase, the Ann Arbor Dancing Lights Folk Festival and Harmonyfest in Three Rivers. His last CD “Lightnin’ Rod” received airplay in the US and Europe. In addition to his solo work, he can be seen performing with the groups COW and 3LB CUT.
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BLACKTHORN
BLACKTHORN
IRISH PUB NIGHT
JANUARY 15, 2022 | 8PM
DOORS AND BAR OPENS AT 7:30
GENERAL ADMISSION
ADV.$22 | $24
One of The Franke Center’s most popular annual events! Featuring traditional songs combined with some of Ireland’s best contemporary songs, Blackthorn creates a musical experience that captures the history and legend of Ireland and its people.
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WOLF TREE FILM FESTIVAL 2022
Wolf Tree Film Festival 2022
SHORT FILM SCREENING
JANUARY 22, 2022 | 8PM
DOORS AND BAR OPENS AT 7:30
GENERAL ADMISSION
ADV.$15 | $17
In its 4th year, Wolf Tree Film Festival features standout short films and talented filmmakers from across the Great Lakes Region. Enjoy screenings, networking mixers, awards, and more.
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Ice, Wine, Beer and Blues Festival 2022 – Featuring Matt Schofield
Ice, Wine, Beer and Blues Festival 2022
Featuring Matt Schofield
FEBRUARY 4 & 5, 2022 | 8PM
ADV.$28 | DOOR $30
A 2-day celebration of winter, booze, and blues! Choose to attend one or both nights of fun.
Friday’s popular festivities feature a wine and beer tasting throughout Marshall’s downtown. Enjoy food, craft beers, and specially-selected wines, as well as live ice sculpting.
Saturday, experience a night of exceptional blues from Matt Schofield. A member of the British Blues Hall of Fame, Schofield is considered one of the top British blues guitarists of all time, alongside icons like Eric Clapton and Peter Green. Part of the Franke Center Blues Series.
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JACKSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 2022
JACKSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
FEBRUARY 26, 2021 | 8 PM
ADV. $31 | DOOR $33
The Jackson Symphony Orchestra has a rich and vibrant history serving the Jackson area since 1949. The orchestra has performed with many legendary figures in the world of music including Dizzy Gillespie, Grant Johannesen, Ralph Votapek and Ian Hobson. Mannheim Steamroller, Ann Murray, and the Manhattan Transfer have invited the orchestra to do multi-state regional tours with them. The repertoire of the orchestra has been adventurous (including two entire seasons where every piece performed was from the 20th Century) and has drawn national attention as evidenced by frequent grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. The orchestra has premiered works by such distinguished composers as Jeff Beal, Crawford Gates, David Gibson, Robert De Gaetano, Falla Guitar Trio and it’s own composer in residence, J. Bruce Brown. Operas including Tosca, La Boheme, Merry Wives of Windsor, Die Fledermaus have been presented in fully staged productions and eight different collaborations with the Indianapolis Ballet and Grand Rapids Ballet have resulted in magical productions of Sleeping Beauty and Nutcracker. www.jacksonsymphony.org
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Legendary Woman: A One-Woman Show by Maya Azucena
Legendary Woman: A One-Woman Show by Maya Azucena
MULTI-GENRE/POP
MARCH 25, 2022 | 8PM
ADV. $26 | DOOR $28
In LEGENDARY WOMAN, internationally-known singer Maya Azucena and her band take audiences on an inspiring journey through the history of women vocalists, from old-time jazz to disco to modern pop.
Maya Azucena, a magnetically inspirational woman, is known for making music that uplifts the soul. Among several awards for her music and humanitarian outreach, Azucena garnered a Grammy Certificate for contributing her 4-octave range and soul-stylings to a feature performance with Stephen Marley on Best Reggae Album of the Year, “Mind Control.”
Critically acclaimed, Brooklyn-native Maya is an avid independent touring artist and songwriter performing globally. Recent concerts include a 17-country tour of Europe in February 2019; Java Jazz Fest (Indonesia), CapeTown Jazz Fest (South Africa), Port Au Prince International Jazz Fest (Haiti), Rio Das Ostras Blues & Jazz Fest (Brazil), Moscow International House of Music (Russia), Pula Arena (Croatia), Delhi International Arts Festival (India), Hollywood Bowl (Los Angeles), Blue Note Hawaii, Blue Note New York, and Essence Fest in New Orleans alongside the likes of Beyonce, Jill Scott and Maxwell.
For the last 3 summers, Azucena has done concert residencies at Bodrum Marina Yacht Club in Turkey, as well as luxury resorts including Lujo Hotel, Regnum Carya Golf Club, and Six Sense Kaplankaya. Maya performed an exclusive concert with her Turkish orchestra, singing her original songs arranged for Çukurova State Symphony of Adana. She was also included in Istanbul’s 2017 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, performing her song “Fearless” for the finale of Çigdem Akin’s runway show.
Maya collaborates extensively on stage and recordings with both national and international stars. Her collaborations have included Marcus Miller, Brass Against, Jason Miles, DJ Spinna, DJ Logic, Fitz and the Tantrums, Vernon Reid, and Bob Sinclair.
Maya is well known for her humanitarian outlook and projects around The Globe which include special focus on Women’s & Youth Empowerment and Domestic/Sexual Violence. Based on a personal commitment to help the world through her talent, most of Maya’s songs are anthems that lend a voice to self-worth, empowerment, overcoming obstacles, and stepping into our “fearless” selves.
“Maya Azucena Brings A Musical Revolution” – BuzzFeed“Catchy. Deep. And Mighty.” – IndependentArtistBuzz“…storytelling lyrics and soulful, soaring vocals.” – Billboard Magazine
“powerfully compelling voice…just could be the most impressive of the current hip-hop/soul/r&b diva crop…” – Village Voice
“The Best Pipes at SXSW” – Austin Chronicle\n \n \n\n
“…a remarkable new singer” – Recording Magazine\n \n
“…voice is so sensuous and sultry…with inspirational themes.” – Washington Post\n\n
“brings activism back to the Arts, ala Nina Simone” – EBONY
“powerful vocals and broad range command attention…”– Performing Songwriter Magazine
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A Franke Center FUNDRAISER
The Second City
A Franke Center Fundraiser
Comedy
April 9, 2022 | 8PM
Dinner and raffle will take place in the Downstage Club starting at 6pm. Upstairs doors open at 7:30 pm.
ADV. $40 | DOOR $42
In this season’s annual Franke Center Fundraiser, legendary improv troupe The Second City takes aim at Marshall and West Michigan. The Second City finds laughs in local history, events, hot-button issues, and headlines from the hometown newspaper. Experience the classic Chicago-style sketch comedy and improv created by some of Second City’s most lauded alumni, including Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell, Gilda Radner, and Bill Murray. Cap the night off with a dinner and raffle supporting The Franke Center, and it should be an unforgettable evening!
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